Beginning a relation with Prince Harry

In June 2016, Markle began a relationship with Prince Harry, whom she had met on a blind date set up by a mutual friend. At the time, he was fifth in line to the British throne; his grandmother is Elizabeth II, queen of the United Kingdom and 15 other Commonwealth realms, as well as head of the Commonwealth. In November, the British royal family's communications secretary released an official statement that addressed sexism, racism, and defamatory stories directed toward Markle